After taking a trip to the Somerset countryside where we met Natalie Jones for our ‘Living with Colour’ series with Farrow & Ball, we left feeling inspired by how the home and lifestyle shop ‘Caro’ founder had introduced some modernity to the countryside through a contemporary extension. So, we’ve had a look through our sales listings for the best contemporary country homes for sale.

The Quell, Haslemere, Surrey
Nestled in the rolling hills of the South Downs, The Quell boasts unparalleled views over the countryside it sits in. Former RIBA president Michael Manser made the most of the scenic surroundings when he designed the house, with light-feeding, floor-to-ceiling glass panels providing an intimate link to nature.

Eashing House, Godalming, Surrey
Green-fingered city dwellers longing for more than a patio to see out their gardening aspirations will delight at this house, set within two-and-a-half acres of gardens. Eashing House was carefully remodelled in 2014 to include generous full-length glazing overlooking gardens comprised of lawn expanses and mature trees.

Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire
Slip away from the hustle and bustle of city life with this three-bedroom country retreat located in Buckinghamshire, just outside London. Don’t fancy the commute? There are two annexe buildings, perfect for a workshop, studio or home office. These additional buildings are tucked away in the peaceful oasis of a sunken garden, landscaped by Chelsea Gold Award winner Andy Sturgeon.

Bressingham II, Norfolk
The striking, clean-lined exterior of this barn conversion captivatingly contrasts with its natural environs. The house occupies a plot of land that previously formed part of Old Boyland Hall estate and backs onto the old moat, a home for all sorts of wildlife including, kingfishers, voles and moorhens. Binoculars not included.

Elephant House, Herne Bay, Kent
If you’re thinking of moving to the coast, chances are you’ll want a sea view. This house, which cleverly arranges living spaces on the first floor, makes the most of its elevated position over Herne Bay in Kent. The Elephant House – so called because of its distinctive grey-hued render – has five bedrooms, making it an ideal permanent family home or a sweet holiday getaway.

Trimingham, Norfolk
A common complaint charged against contemporary builds is that they sometimes fail to respond to the local vernacular. Not so at The Garden House, which integrates itself perfectly into its architectural context with winged roofs that nod to those found in nearby Trimingham village. And, if you weren’t tempted already, the house is a ten-minute walk to the Norfolk coast.

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